Welcome to the Iinkai Judo & Self Defence Clubs website

Iinkai Judo Clubs were established in 1999 by David Edmonds,
Director and Head Coach.

    We teach classes in and around the Thames Valley, at numerous Schools and Reading University, catering for all ages and abilities. The classes offer pupils the opportunity to work up from white belt through to black belt, attend Judo and Self Defence gradings and participate in competitions. Iinkai provides students with the opportunity to learn an effective method of self defence, a martial art and take part in a fun and enjoyable Olympic sport. If you would like more information, then please email us or utilise the details on the contacts page. We hope the website will be useful for pupils, parents and associates.

    Thank you.

    Dave Edmonds 4th Dan

     

     

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A Brief History of Kodokan Judo and Iinkai

    Kodokan Judo
    Kodokan Judo was founded in 1882 by Jigoro Kano. Kano believed that by removing the most dangerous techniques from competition and free practise, students would be able to train at a higher intensity without the risk of injury. This would allow these students to develop their skills to a standard not seen before. Kano's views were proved correct when Kodokan students proved victorious in competitions against rival Ju Jitsu schools and Judo became the pre-eminent martial art in Japan.

    Over time Kano realized that the discipline and values students developed by learning and practising Judo could be transferred to their every day life. Judo then became seen as more than just a form of physical training, it was also a form of mental and ethical training.

    In the early part of the 20th Century Judo spread from Japan to the rest of the world. In 1964 Judo became an Olympic Sport.

    Today Judo is many things -

    1. An Olympic Sport
    2. An Effective Method of Self Defence
    3. A form of Mental and Ethical Training
    4. A form of Exercise for a Healthy Lifestyle.


    Iinkai Judo Clubs

    Iinkai was founded in 1999 by Dave Edmonds with the aim of providing high quality Judo and Self Defence coaching to Children and Adults throughout the South East of England. Our first permanent venue opened it doors in 2001 followed by our first 2 schools classes in 2002. In 2004 Iinkai expanded its schools program and at present works with over 60 schools and 1 University catering for students of all ages and abilities.

    Iinkai has always sought to help every student to maxmise their potential and develop the values Judo teaches. The study of Judo is a personal journey and our team are here to help, encourage and challenge you to make the most of your journey.

    Iinkai's ethos has alway been to push boundaries and test students in order to help them reach the highest possible standards. An excellent example of this is our grading program.

    Students have the opportunity to to undertake Judo Gradings at the club from white belt all the way up to brown belt.

    At this point students must complete the competitive requirement for their 1st Dan Black belt before deciding whether to attempt the coveted Iinkai Gold Standard (IGS) Black Belt Exam. This technical test is far more rigourous than the standard Black Belt exam and students must demonstrate an understanding of every technique in the Gokyo as well as a completing 2 Kata to a high standard. Iinkai's Head Coach conducts all these examinations or personally approves another experienced Sensei to ensure standards do not dip.

    Students can opt to undertake the standard BJA 1st Dan theory Examination if they wish.

    To date the club has helped 10 Students achieve their 1st Dans, with 8 also achieving the Iinkai Gold Standard (IGS). You could be the next!